Route Overview
Known as the "Whiskey Route" due to its challenging and scenic character, the Machame route takes you through dramatic ridges, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m). It is renowned for its climb-high sleep-low acclimatization profile at Lava Tower and the thrilling scramble up Barranco Wall.
Route Highlights
Day-by-Day Trek Itinerary
Machame Gate (1,830m) to Machame Camp (3,035m)
Trek through dense rainforest, rich in flora and fauna. Gradual ascent to Machame Camp. Overnight at Machame Camp.
Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,850m)
Cross the moorland zone and rocky ridges onto the expansive Shira Plateau. Spectacular views of Kibo Peak. Overnight at Shira Camp.
Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,640m)
Climb high to Lava Tower (4,640m) for essential acclimatization, then descend into the scenic Barranco Valley. Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Scramble up the famous Barranco Wall and traverse undulating valleys to Karanga. Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Hike across alpine desert ridges to base camp Barafu in preparation for the summit push. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Midnight summit assault up scree slopes to Stella Point and Uhuru Peak for sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp. Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Gentle descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate to collect summit certificates and celebrate.
What’s Included
- All park fees and camping permits
- Professional mountain guides, porters & cook
- Tents, sleeping pads, and mess tent
- All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Pre/post climb airport transfers
- Emergency oxygen & daily health checks
- Kilimanjaro climbing certificate
What’s Excluded
- International flights & entry visa
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Tips for mountain crew (guides, porters, cook)
- Travel & medical evacuation insurance
- Personal expenses, snacks & soft drinks
Machame Route – “Whiskey Route”
Book your private climb with custom dates, dedicated mountain guides, and full high-altitude camp support.
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